1. Dr Jennifer Munro Senior Education Officer Aboriginal Curriculum Unit Some essential factors to help establish Aboriginal language programs

2. Background research in the Initial Phase: The first steps CONSULT CONSULT CONSULT The school should consult the community about the following: - who should be involved in that community - what language to teach and - the protocols to get started Consult other schools, communities and organisations to share experiences and resources. GET INVOLVED INVOLVED INVOLVED The community should have every opportunity to become involved in all decision making and teaching aspects of the program. Ultimately the community should develop a sense of ownership of the language program

3. Background research in the Initial Phase: What you need. Language resources - grammar, dictionary, orthography, other texts/stories Human resources - Community Language Tutors, linguist, classroom teachers etc. Teaching resources – Aboriginal languages K- 10 Syllabus and associated support documents and teaching resources in the Aboriginal language.

4. Team building It’s all about working together Building trust Language Reclamation/Revival requires too much for one person to do Different people bring different skills and abilities

5. So you’ve done your research. You’ve got enough language, human and teaching resources. And, you’ve started teaching the language in the school The next 1-2 years are in many ways the most important for a long-term, sustainable language program.

6. Creating a sustainable language program in the Developmental Phase Professional development Language teaching methodology training Language learning opportunities Team planning in an open and inviting environment Ongoing Support from DET, CEC or OBoS Build up classroom experience

7. Timetabling Full programming Support from Principal and executive Language circles/regional networks Advocacy for the teaching of Aboriginal languages Ongoing support Aboriginal language programs in the established phase

8. Some tips Be flexible - don’t worry if things don’t work all the time – there’s always ups and downs Ask for support and help Don’t take too much on yourself (watch out for burn out!) Remember why you’re doing it and share those experiences HAVE FUN!!